Presidential Address

GENTLEMEN,- In opening the present session with a few personal remarks it is my first duty to express my appreciation of the great honour which has been conferred upon me by your Council, who by their unanimous vote have elected me to the presidential chair for the next two years. This is in accordance with the custom which has obtained in this Institute since its foundation, but in these democratic days I am doubtful whether such a course commends itself to the membership, or is consonant with the trend of public opinion. I would rather see the nomination of President and Vice-presidents submitted to the vote of the general of Works of the general body of the members. This matter is under the consideration of the Council, and I hope that the various alterations in the Articles Qf Association which are proposed will include some means by which the members all over the world can take part in the elections, not only of the chief officers but also of the Council generally.